Introduction: Are you a fly
angler and like nice things? We mean really, really nice things? Southern
California-based Abel Reels has been producing not just premium, but stunning
products for quite some time. As a matter of fact this marks their 25th
Anniversary, and they even showed us something new to commemorate this very
special year.

Abel has long been known for high quality reels and unique finishes that truly
qualify as "art"

Abel Hybrid
Hemostat:
The hybrid hemostat features a small locking mechanism located on the top of the
handle that only locks into place when you want it to. You must only squeeze the
handles or slide back this small thumb lock to unlock the jaws. This is a much
easier one-handed process than with traditional hemostats.

New
for this season, a hybrid hemostat that locks

The replaceable
stainless steel jaws feature a lifetime guarantee and are capable of both hook
removal and crimping down extremely small barbs. You'll also find an integrated
loop tightener located on the handle. With aircraft-grade aluminum and stainless
steel used throughout, these hemostats weigh just 1.2 ounces at a length of 5.6
inches. Prices start at $125.00 for the black color with both solid and artistic
color options available.

It
wouldn't be an Abel without color options

New Finishes:
Let's face it, Abel's finishes are just plain cool! Every so often they somehow
seem to be able to improve upon what already looks pretty darn good to us, and
this year is no different. New colors of note include the DeYoung Montana Brown
Trout, 2013 Tarpon, Yamame, and 2013 Rainbow Trout. There is also a 25th
anniversary DeYoung reel that features a charcoal style trout flank coloration
and even comes in it's own wooden presentation box.

The
25th Anniversary DeYoung reel

Last but
certainly not least, is the new Limited Edition Grateful Dead reel. Through a
long-awaited partnership with Grateful Dead Productions and Rhino Entertainment,
Abel now offers a limited number of 250 “Steal Your Face” reels. Available on
any Super Series or Classic Series reel, they command a $300 premium over the
cost of a standard black reel.

This piece needs no introduction

Prototype
Sealed Drag Reels:
One gripe we sometimes hear regarding Abel reels is why can't they offer a
sealed drag system? Those complaints will surely subside, as Abel showcased
their new prototype reels featuring a sealed drag system. Initially offered in
4N and 5N sizes, these are scheduled to launch in November at a price of $550
for the 4N, and $625 for the 5N. Jeff Patterson of Abel reels tells us to be on
the lookout for 6N and 7/8N sizes coming in the spring time.

A
first look at Abel's sealed drag prototype reel

Mooching Reel:
Something totally different from Abel is a mooching reel that should grab the
attention of serious salmon anglers. This model features the same cork drag
system, large arbor, and precision machined aircraft aluminum throughout as the
regular fly reel lineup.

Abel will soon offer a mooching reel

Other notable
features include an aluminum-milled drag knob, counterbalanced double aluminum
handles, proprietary full saltwater anodizing, new outgoing click mechanism, and
the ability to customize. The mooching reel tips the scales at 14.5 ounces and
is priced at $700. Spare spools are available for $350 each.

Jeff Patterson at Abel shows us all the new reels and finishes at the show

Conclusion:
It's always fun to visit the Abel display at a sport fishing show. It's like
being a kid in a candy store, with extreme quality and vibrant colors
surrounding you. Combining their level of quality with the astounding finishes
that are available, it's no wonder demand for their products doesn't seem to
slow down. No matter how many fly reels are introduced into the market, Abel
will always have that very special vibe surrounding everything they make!